Join in and celebrate 80 Days of Earth Discovery

01 August 2018

Geoscience Australia today launched an 80-day-long celebration of the highly diverse and wonderful world of Earth science and how it impacts our daily lives.

80 Days of Earth Discovery—which includes events around the country along with online activities—invites Australians of all ages to get involved and discover the interesting facts about our own backyards.

Geoscience Australia's Chief Executive Officer, Dr James Johnson, said the program will showcase how discoveries in Earth science impact us all.

"Resources from the Earth are essential to the technologies that we have become accustomed to in daily life" he said.

"They not only provide the energy to fuel our homes and transport, but also the materials we need for our high-tech industries. For example, many people don't know that Australia holds resources for 17 of 24 elements found in mobile phones."

Dr Johnson also explained that Earth science isn't just about the rocks under our feet and has many applications that go beyond looking for resources.

"New technologies and innovations mean that the work of geoscientists has evolved to include using satellite imagery to help farmers to best manage their land, improving Australia's global positioning capabilities to support our growing economy, and monitoring our environment to keep us safe from natural disasters."

Dr Johnson said celebrating this brilliant diversity will also highlight how geoscience contributes to decision making for industries, communities and the environment.

Some of the many activities that are happening include interactive online discussions with geoscientists, training sessions for teachers, and public talks and tours, including the National Mineral and Fossil Collection.

Geoscience Australia acknowledges the traditional owners of the country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to them and their cultures and to the elders past and present.